BY: MISSY MIRUS ELIZABETH SAWZIN Idealism

Idealism is the earliest philosophy known to man. It originates from ancient India in the East, and to Plato in the West. Its simple view stresses the human spirit as the most crucial element in life. Although numerous philosophers differ greatly on various specific details, most agree on the following two points: 1) The human spirit is the most crucial element in life. 2) The universe is basically nonmaterial in its complete nature.

Beliefs Ideas and knowledge are the ultimate reality. In our world, things will always change, but ideas and knowledge are forever. People who believe in idealism feel they can change lives. These people feel the most crucial part of a person is the mind. Idealists think the mind should always be nourished and developed. Idealism emphasizes the importance of mind, soul, and spirit.

Philosophy’s Possible Influences on Curriculum The significant factor in education at all levels for idealists is teaching children to think. Educators should assist children to navigate texts for thoughts about the purpose of life, family, friends, the nature of peer pressures, and the challenges of life. Idealists think their ideas can change lives and that historical texts should be used to help answer problems of the world. Idealists believe creativity should be used when students throw themselves into the creative thinking of other people and are encouraged to reflect upon experiences.

Examples of Philosophy’s Influences on Curriculum It gives purpose for the decisions and actions of curriculum developers. The philosophers life experiences, common sense, social and economic background, education, and basic beliefs of others are brought into and reflected through their work.

Example Lesson Plan of Philosophy’s Influence on Curriculum “A Simple Melody” Students will learn the notes of the treble clef staff, then compose and play simple melodies using various instruments. They will create lyrics for a poem by using an event from their own life. The beat of the lyrics will match with the beat of the melody. Students will perform the piece for the class. After the performance is over, students will share their thoughts of the piece through group discussion.

Key Terms Creativity – having the quality or power of creating. Mind – the process in a human that reasons, thinks, feels, wills, perceives, judges, etc. Soul – the principle of life, feeling, thought, and action in humans, regarded as a distinct entity separate from the body. Spirit – the animating principle of life: vital essence.

Key Terms (continued) Reality — ideas exist in the mind and man can instinctively know the truth of an ideal when he/she encounters it. Perfect versions of concepts we dimly experience on Earth exist in another realm. Many idealists would say in the mind of God. Here, we can only see/create imperfect visions/experiences of what exists in reality. We are not equipped to see reality. Knowledge — based on facts and should move students toward the perfect conception of an idea. Purpose of education — develop the mind so it can recognize perfection and move as far as possible toward it. Teacher must model the closest representation of perfect as is possible, so expectations are high.

Purpose of Education in using Idealism The purpose of education is to give to the development of the mind and self of the learner. The educational setting should stress intellectual activities, moral judgments, aesthetic judgments, self-realization, individual freedom and responsibility, and self-control in order to attain this development.

Philosophy’s Impact on Students, Teachers, Administrators, and Schools Students have more ownership in the learning process. Teachers must demonstrate knowledge and have human insight into the needs and capacity of the students. They must show moral excellence in personal conduct and actions. Teachers must also demonstrate creative skill in providing opportunities for students’ minds to discover, analyze, unify, synthesize, and produce applications of knowledge to life and behavior.

Philosophy’s Impact on Students, Teachers, Administrators, and Schools cont. Administrators are there to support the teachers and be a moral example for their community. Some schools are designed to promote student learning in an idealistic way. This allows students to be more creative and have the opportunity express themselves.

Philosophy Aligned with Curriculum “Permanent studies – the study of grammar, reading, rhetoric and logic, mathematics, and at the secondary level, the greatest book of the Western World.” (Hutchins) Educators should assist children to navigate texts for thoughts about the purpose of life, family, friends, the nature of peer pressures, and the challenges of life.

Philosophy is put into Historical Context for U.S. Schools Idealism began in Greece. We know Idealism was used for religious purposes in U.S. schools. It was taught around the Puritan time period. Teachers used Idealism to convey religious views and for studying the Bible.

Idealism and the ODE Academic Content Standards ODE, Grade 3, Writing Process Standard Ohio Benchmark B. Determine audience and purpose for self- selected and assigned writing tasks. Grade-Level Indicator 3. Develop a purpose and audience for writing.

Personal Connections and Insights for Idealism Idealism has been influential in education for a long period of time. It is considered a conservative philosophy because it emphasizes preserving cultural customs. The positive aspects of Idealism include encouraging thinking and cognition, promoting cultural customs, and providing for character development of students.

Discussion Questions 1) What is your opinion on the philosophy of Idealism? 2) Do you think using the philosophy of Idealism is practical in U.S. public schools today? 3) How might you incorporate Idealism into your classroom?